The Edo State Security Corps has arrested a 22-year-old suspected fake soldier and a Police Constabulary officer for alleged unlawful possession of firearms in the state.
The suspect identified as Peter Ehiotu, said to be from Benue State, was apprehended while dressed in an Army uniform, while the Police Constable, Nelson Agbonze, was arrested with a firearm.
The Deputy Commander of the Corps in charge of operations, Richard Balogun, who confirmed the arrests, alleged that the duo are also suspected kidnappers.
Balogun disclosed that the fake soldier was arrested in an uncompleted building along the Oluku Bypass axis by operatives of the Oluku Sector Command. He said items recovered from him included an Army jacket and a substance suspected to be hard drugs, popularly known as ice.
He further stated that the Police Constable was arrested on February 10, 2026, along Amufi Road in Benin City.
According to him, the Constabulary officer, who was not authorised to carry arms or undergo full weapons training, was found in possession of a cut-to-size firearm.
Balogun added that two other suspects were arrested in separate operations across the state for possession of a firearm and theft.
He explained that the arrests were made during routine patrols and intelligence-driven operations aimed at flushing out criminal elements and strengthening internal security in communities across Edo State.
Speaking to journalists, the fake soldier claimed he resides at the S and T Barracks in Benin City. He alleged that the Army uniform he wore was given to him by an officer serving in the barracks.
Balogun stated that the suspects would be handed over to the Edo State Police Command for further investigation and prosecution.
